Download PHYSICS DEPARTMENT Syllabus: Phys 101 (4 cr.) – Introductory

PHYSICS DEPARTMENT
Syllabus: Phys 101 (4 cr.) – Introductory Physics I
Textbook: Physics for Scientists & Engineers, Volume 1 (Serway & Jewett)
1.
Quantitative Nature of Science
Definition of basic physical quantities: mass, length and time. Dimensional analysis. Conversion
of units. Significant figures.
2.
Motion in One Dimension
Displacement. Average versus instantaneous velocity. Acceleration. One dimensional motion at
constant acceleration. Free fall.
3.
Motion in Two Dimensions
Coordinate systems. Two dimensional motion (projectiles & circular motion). Uniform
acceleration. Tangential and radial acceleration.
4.
Vectors versus Scalars
Simple vector operations. Projectile motion without friction. Uniform circular motion. Relative
velocity.
5.
The Laws of Motion
The concept of force. Newton’s laws of motion. Application of Newton’s laws of motion including
friction.
6.
Non-Uniform Circular Motion
Non-Uniform Circular Motion, Motion in the presence of resistive forces and terminal velocity.
7.
Energy of a System
Definition of work. Work done by a constant/varying force. Kinetic energy and the work-energy
theorem. Conservative and Non-Conservative Force.
8.
Conservation of Energy
System and its environment. Conservation of energy. Relationship between conservative forces
and potential energy.
9.
Momentum and Collisions
Momentum and impulse. Conservation of momentum. Collisions: elastic and inelastic. Collision
in two dimensions. The center of mass and motion of a system of particles. Rocket propulsion.
10.
Rotational Equilibrium and Rotational Dynamics
Rotational kinematics circular motion. Angular and translational quantities. Centripetal
acceleration. Rotational kinetic Energy.
11.
Moment of Inertia
The vector product and Torque. Energy considerations in rotational motion. Rolling motion of a
rigid object. Angular momentum and conservation of angular momentum.
12.
Newton’s Law of Universal Gravity
Kepler’s laws of planetary motion. Gravitational potential energy. Motion of an object attached
to a spring. Energy consideration for simple harmonic motion.